Week 1 (It’s Lit)

Dear Brett,

Honestly if the summer continues to be as exciting as these first few days have been you’ll have an even better time than you imagined. It’s been full of bike rides around Detroit, bonding with cohort members, exploring Wayne State’s campus, learning to grocery shop and cook, and getting to know some fantastic people at Green Garage. The biggest thing I wasn’t explicitly expecting was how vibrant Detroit is. Sure maybe it’s in part because the hipsters have taken over Midtown, but there are so many fascinating events to go to, sites to see, and program to get involved with. Every part of Detroit thus far is beautiful.

Bringing a bike was a great idea. Detroit is quite easy to navigate directionally, flat enough so that you can bike anywhere, and traffic isn’t an issue. I hope you find a way to feel comfortable with how you are supporting local businesses with your purchases, and can find a balance of immersing yourself in your project, getting to know the backgrounds of fellow Green Garage employees, finding meaningful things to do in Detroit, and having time to relax as well as socialize. More and more this program seems like it has provided you with a once in a lifetime experience to combine adventure with impactful work and a cohort group of like-minded people.

The non-profit type working environment is a real treat to be a part of; the best part of this experience is the fact that you get to gain practical experience in a field of work you are interested in, while also doing beneficial work for a good community in the immediate future. Remember to give a shoutout to Luke for connecting you with the program, buy produce from farmers markets frequently, explore as often as possible, be grounded, and volunteer at urban gardens like MIUFI!!!

This summer is gonna be hella dank if you take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves; taking initiative will be key to maximizing the good in this experience. Jenna has set you, and your peers, up to have a highly influential summer so don’t let her down!

Take care, be yourself, and leave your comfort zone,

Love,

Yourself